A MELKSHAM man has changed his life through a Wiltshire Council health training service and is recommending it to residents across the county.

Graham Laurenson, 50, decided to join up the free service after visiting his local GP and discovering he wasn’t as healthy as he once thought.

“I knew I had been lazy for a while, and eating and drinking whatever I wanted, but stepping onto those scales with a bit of trepidation, I couldn’t believe my eyes. I was about 20kg more than I had guessed and even that was a bit of an over-estimate. My cholesterol and blood pressure weren’t too bad but personally, inside I was cringing,” Mr Laurenson said.

With the motivation to lose weight and get into shape, Mr Laurensen filled out an online form for Wiltshire Council’s health training service and just a few days later an appointment was organised.

“It wasn’t what I expected- she didn’t criticise me, and listened intently to my concerns and needs. I registered, and we made a date for two weeks’ time, during which, I’d fill out a food diary, to see where I was going wrong- or right. I also bought scales,” he continued.

After his trainer Emily Edwards looked through the food diary she went on to advise Mr Laurensen over what changes needed to be made to his diet. Six appointments and 12 weeks later, Mr Laurensen had lost two-and-a-half stone and reduced the risk of diabetes.

Miss Edwards said: “I’m really proud at what he achieved, and the fact that it’s a lifestyle now, not a fad diet. If only more people would take the slow and steady approach like he has, I am sure they would see the same positive results.”

For more information on the health trainers service and how to get involved visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-trainers or call 0300 003 4566.